for show
idiom
1
: intended to be seen but not used or bought
We're not supposed to eat the fruit on the table. It's just for show.
2
disapproving
: done in order to gain the approval or favor of others
He says he enjoys classical music, but it's only for show.
Examples of for show in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In reality, any Saudi commitment would be mostly for show, because the kingdom is struggling with lower oil prices and domestic economic demands, and rarely delivers on such promises.
—
Marc Lynch, Foreign Affairs, 12 May 2025
The explosive growth of Pokémon has been great for show promoters.
—Michael Salfino, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Manuel Sá View 5 Images This skyscraper's extraordinary exterior is not just for show.
—Adam Williams, New Atlas, 16 Apr. 2025
The key theme that sounded the alarm for show business executives: The way young people consume entertainment is changing.
—Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for for show
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Marc Lynch, Foreign Affairs, 12 May 2025
The explosive growth of Pokémon has been great for show promoters.
—Michael Salfino, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Manuel Sá View 5 Images This skyscraper's extraordinary exterior is not just for show.
—Adam Williams, New Atlas, 16 Apr. 2025
The key theme that sounded the alarm for show business executives: The way young people consume entertainment is changing.
—Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for for show
Cite this Entry
“For show.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/for%20show. Accessed 24 May. 2025.
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